The ornamental Oleander shrub grows well on Ocracoke. But, beware! All parts of this plant are poisonous. I have heard of island dogs dying after chewing on Oleander branches. The story has even been told of a Boy Scout troop that died after using Oleander sticks to roast hot dogs. This is probably an urban legend (see http://www.snopes.com/horrors/poison/oleander.asp), but this attractive plant is, in fact, very toxic. Enjoy it, but do not eat it!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is a tribute to a wonderful man who did much for Ocracoke Island, Marvin Wyche Howard (1897-1969). You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news052113.htm.
Having three dogs that like to chew sticks, dirt, etc.... This is very useful information.
ReplyDeleteScary, but important to know. Thanks for sharing.
Hmm I guess there won't be too many more years of Boy Scout tales to tell. Has the local troop on OI lost its sponsor yet?
ReplyDeleteGood information. Certainly did not know that. Thank you;.
ReplyDeleteThe Lost Mounted Boy Scout Troop of Ocracoke--great fodder for a ghost tour story, 'cause it smacks of plausibility. :-)
ReplyDeleteoh...I should have known!!!
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